What is Adapted Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

PCIT is an evidence-based treatment for children from ages 3-8 with behavioral concerns (e.g., defiant behavior, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). 
 
PCIT is performed via “coaching” sessions by a clinical psychologist during which there are two treatment phases: Development of a positive relationship with your child and implementation of strategies meant to decrease oppositional behaviors in your child. 
 
In the first phase, the goals are as follows:

• Decrease frequency/severity/duration of temper tantrums
• Decrease negative behaviors (e.g., whining, hitting)
• Decrease parent frustration
• Increase attention span from the child
• Increase distress tolerance from the child
• Increase in prosocial behaviors (e.g., sharing)

 
In the second phase, the goals are as follows:

• Decrease frequency/severity/duration of aggressive behavior
• Decrease destructive behaviors (e.g., hitting, yelling)
• Increase attention span and follow-through
• Improve private and public behavior
• Increase in parental calmness 

PCIT is meant to be attended to consistently and with homework completed in approximately 12-20 sessions. Due to the physical constraints of our practice settings (we do not have a padded/wall-cushioned room with one-way mirror), we have adapted PCIT to use in a private-practice outpatient setting. At WACCH, we have found it to be just as effective in terms of outcome.